Filmmakers Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin made their mark with the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo, and now they are back with their first narrative feature, Nyad. The film, which had its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival, explores the incredible story of marathon swimmer Diana Nyad.
Nyad is no stranger to controversy, as some athletes and sports commentators have criticized her for exaggerations throughout her career. However, the filmmakers do not shy away from depicting Nyad’s selfishness and combative personality. They aim to celebrate her achievements while also acknowledging her flaws. Annette Bening delivers a fierce and fearless performance in the title role, capturing Nyad’s determination, arrogance, and single-mindedness.
The film delves into Nyad’s friendship with her coach, Bonnie Stoll (played by Jodie Foster), and her relationship with John Bartlett (played by Rhys Ifans), the ship captain who accompanied her on her failed and successful swims. Nyad’s character flaws strain these relationships, but the filmmakers show the deep devotion between these characters, making their bond truly moving. Bening and Foster’s performances are raw and powerful, devoid of any vanity.
Nyad’s story revolves around the universal theme of defying age and chasing ambitious goals. The film starts at Nyad’s 60th birthday party and doesn’t make a fuss about her sexual orientation, seamlessly integrating it into the narrative. The driving force of the film is Nyad’s relentless pursuit of her goal to swim from Cuba to Florida, a 110-mile journey. The filmmakers showcase her determination, as well as the obstacles she faces, such as sharks and jellyfish, capturing the suspense and allure of the ocean.
Directors Vasarhelyi and Chin demonstrate their command of cinematic storytelling in Nyad, just as they did in their documentaries like Free Solo. The cinematography by Claudio Miranda brings the swimming scenes to life, immersing the audience in the beauty and danger of the ocean. The film’s only flaw lies in the handling of a late revelation about Nyad being abused by her swim coach as a teenager. The topic is important but feels like an afterthought, lacking proper exploration earlier in the film.
Overall, Nyad mesmerizes with its captivating performances, stunning visuals, and the inspiring story of an athlete who defied age and expectations. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting Nyad’s flaws, adding depth to her character. Bening’s portrayal of Nyad is commanding and unforgettable, and Foster shines in her role as Nyad’s loyal coach.
The full credits of the film include notable names such as director of photography Claudio Miranda, production designer Kara Lindstrom, and costume designer Kelli Jones. The music by Alexandre Desplat adds to the film’s immersive experience. Nyad is a testament to the skill and talent of the filmmakers, capturing the spirit of its protagonist and delivering an enveloping cinematic experience.
In conclusion, Nyad is a powerful and captivating film that brings to life the extraordinary story of Diana Nyad. The filmmakers showcase her journey with honesty, celebrating her achievements while exploring her flaws. The performances by Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, and Rhys Ifans are remarkable, capturing the complex dynamics of Nyad’s relationships. With stunning visuals and a compelling narrative, Nyad proves that age is no barrier to relentless ambition.
